Description
Gabriela Pulido and Donna Minix discussed Katy ISD‘s truancy prevention efforts. Serving 88,465 students, the district saw attendance peak at 99.74% in 2019-2020 but declined slightly post-pandemic. To combat this, the dropout prevention team uses RaaWee K12 Attendance+, now expanding district-wide, to track attendance, sign AIPs electronically, and monitor communications effectively.
A Data-Driven Approach to Attendance
Katy ISD, serving over 88,000 students across 70 campuses, has implemented targeted interventions to minimize truancy. While attendance peaked at 99.74% in 2019-2020, a slight decline followed the pandemic. The Dropout Prevention Department, led by Gabriela Pulido, collaborates with facilitators, social workers, and police officers to keep students engaged.
Structured Truancy Interventions
The district closely monitors attendance trends, implements Attendance Improvement Plans (AIPs), and follows a structured truancy flow chart, utilizing warning letters and court referrals when necessary. Partnerships with programs like Triad provide additional truancy prevention support.
Expanding the Use of RaaWee K12 Attendance+
After a successful pilot in six schools, RaaWee K12 Attendance+ is now being scaled district-wide. The platform offers real-time attendance reports, electronic AIP signatures, and email tracking, enhancing communication and intervention efforts.
Holistic Support for Students
Beyond attendance tracking, Katy ISD integrates character education, mental health services, and crisis intervention to support student well-being. These initiatives reinforce the district’s commitment to keeping students in school and engaged.
Collaboration for Continuous Attendance Improvement
With a low dropout rate, 167 students in 2019-2020 and 273 last year, Katy ISD remains focused on refining strategies and fostering a culture of attendance. By expanding digital tools and strengthening community partnerships, the district continues to make strides in reducing truancy.